Myrrhis odorata (Sweet Cicely) seeds

Architectural wildflower which although not originally native to Britain, is now naturalised here having been introduced from Europe in the 18th century. Found in hedgerows and woodland edges, it is perfect for shady borders though it will also grow happily in a sunny spot.  The abundant ferny foliage is sweetly aniseed scented and the beautiful umbels of fluffy white flowers reach up to 1m tall.

Has many other common names; Beaked Cow Parsley, Cow Chervil, Fern Leaved Chervil.

Hardy Perennial
Flowers: May to June
Height: 1m
Position: Sun or semi shade in well drained soil

Packet of 15 seeds 

GROWING GUIDE

These seeds have a dormancy which needs to be broken by a period of cold.  Sow indoors at any time or outdoors in autumn.

Outdoors: Scatter the seed on well raked soil, rake in lightly and water.  If sowing in rows, leave 25cm between rows. Germination can take several months and is most likely to occur in spring after dormancy has been broken by the winter cold.  When they do appear, keep the seedlings watered and thin out as necessary.  To prolong flowering and prevent self seeding, remove the seedheads just as the petals start to fall.

Indoors:  Sow on the surface of moist compost and cover very lightly with a fine sprinkling of compost, vermiculite or perlite.  Seal in a polythene bag and place in the fridge for 4 weeks.  After this, move to a warm place or propagator and maintain at around 21C.  After germination, grow on in slightly cooler conditions, around 15C, repotting as necessary. After all risk of frost has passed, gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions and plant out 25cms apart.